Interior designer Geri O’Toole lets us into her tailored wardrobe …
Tales From My Wardrobe, a style series fromTHE GLOSS community, is a love letter to favourite pieces and hard-earned investment buys that all have a story to tell. From iconic Irish fashion designer Orla Kiely, Charlotte Temple From Magee 1866 and Henrietta Rix, co-founder of fashion brand Rixo to Irish interior designers Suzie McAdam and Róisín Lafferty, broadcaster Louise Duffy and Lorraine Keane’s pre-loved fashion finds, this is your chance to take a sneak peek into the most treasured possessions of some of the most stylish women in Ireland, and read all of the meaningful stories behind them. This time, we meet Geri O’Toole of Geri’s Designs.
“I like my style to feel effortless – elevated pieces like a tailored blazer or coatigan that work with simple staples. Just like my interiors it evolving, but it always has to feel liveable, easy to wear and comfortable for a busy lifestyle. I love finding hidden gems in smaller boutiques or vintage shops when I travel. I’m especially drawn to pieces that echo what I admire in interiors: texture, natural fibres and colours that feel authentic.”
“I found this Isabel Marant jacket in Paris while on a sourcing trip. The moment I saw it, the colour struck me as perfect – it mirrored the vibrant pink and lavender palette of a house I was shooting the following week. I bought it instantly, wore it on the shoot, and it felt like fashion and interiors coming together in harmony. Every time I wear it now, I’m reminded of that moment of serendipity and how inspiration flows between both worlds.”
“The most sentimental item I own is a coat my dad bought me, which I’ll always treasure. He sadly passed away a couple of months ago, so it holds an even deeper meaning now. It’s a reminder of his love, encouragement and the way he always wanted me to feel confident in myself.
I never leave the house without my phone … not for emails or social media, but to capture inspiration. I’m always photographing textures, colours and patterns or making quick notes when an idea sparks. It’s the same way my rugs.ie collection was born – from those little moments of inspiration that grow into something tangible.”
“The best bargain in my wardrobe is an oversized COS denim dress I picked up on sale – it’s simple, breathable and has become such an easy staple.
My biggest investment recently was a Tiffany Lock bracelet. I love jewellery that feels timeless and enduring, and this is a piece I know I’ll wear forever.
My most hardworking accessories are my handbags, especially my YSL cross-body in brown. It comes everywhere with me, from site visits to weekend trips, and it always feels right.”
“The pieces that have paid for themselves in price per wear are a Sissel Edelbo set – I wear it as a co-ord or pair the shirt with jeans – and a Pippa Holt kaftan that I bring out every year. I never tire of the colours, they still feel fresh and vibrant year after year.
My most recent purchase was a Ganni denim top that I wore while filming with Homeworthy, the American YouTube show. It struck me as the perfect balance of laidback but polished, which felt right for being in front of the camera.”
“The least “fashion” things I wear all the time are my silver Onitsuka Tiger trainers or an Anine Bing baseball cap. They’re my go-tos for downtime and low-key weekends.
The fashion piece I’m dreaming of is a Loewe co-ord set in deep green. I’m drawn to how earthy and grounding it feels as green has always been part of my favourite palette. It reminds me of the Provence Olive rug from my collection – both have that rich, natural depth that instantly makes a space, or an outfit, feel alive.”
Need to know: Geri Designs has created a considered collection of handwoven rugs inspired by places where she has worked, from Manhattan to Provence. Browse the full collection here. @geri_designs
